Who pays for building and pest inspection?
There are many moving parts to buying a new home and the process can be confusing, especially for first time buyers. Understandably, many people have never heard of a building and pest inspection until they need one. This inevitability leads to many questions about who pays for a building and pest inspection, what it is and why it’s so important.
Who pays for building and pest inspection?
In most cases, the buyer is responsible for paying for the building and pest inspection. This is because the inspection is done to protect the buyer's interests and to ensure that they are making a sound investment.
However, in some cases, the seller may agree to pay for the inspection as part of the negotiation process. It is important to clarify who will be responsible for paying for the inspection before entering into any contracts or agreements.
What is a building and pest inspection?
A building and pest inspection is a comprehensive visual assessment of a property, usually performed before a buyer purchases a property. The inspection combines two separate assessments: a building inspection and a timber pest inspection.
The building inspection is conducted by a licensed inspector who examines the property for any major or minor building defects and safety hazards. This can include things like cracking in walls, broken down pipes, nail popping, cracked tiles in bathroom and much more. The inspector will also look for any potential safety hazards, such as high set windows with no restrictors, loose balustrades, and staircase defects.
The timber pest inspection is also conducted by a licensed inspector who checks for any evidence of timber pest activity and damage. The most common timber pests are termites and timber borers. Termites can cause serious damage to the property and be costly to repair.
The pest inspector will also check for any conducive conditions to future infestations and check the home with a thermal imaging camera and moisture meter.
Why is a building and pest inspection so important?
Based upon the results of the inspection, the buyer can use the report to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase, negotiate the price or terms of the contract, or withdraw their offer altogether.
The inspection can also identify issues that need to be addressed before the sale can be finalized, ensuring that the buyer is aware of any potential issues before they become their responsibility.
Buy with confidence with Local Building and Pest Inspections
All of our inspectors have over 30 years of experience and are fully licensed and qualified. With us, you can trust that you're getting a quality building and pest inspection.
At Local Inspections, all our reports include coloured photos, recommendations for repairs, and are sent within 24 hours.